It is the main fair day and during it everyone is treated as equal rank insofar as walking the grounds. Day Two: The Princes meet individually with the High Prince as the Lords meet in the Athr'im Council, which is held separately. Day Three: Race day. There are about ten races, during which much betting and gambling ensues. Most races take place on the track, but one is cross country and very hazardous. Gold used to be the prize for these races, but in 698 gems were awarded at the suggestion of Princess Ianthe. This increased the jewelers' trade significantly and brought back the bejeweled style for Ladies. Day Four: The final day of political maneuverings, it is filled with Princely conferences, during which each meets with the High Prince. Day Five: The last day of the fair, it is when all official documents are signed and stamped by the Lady or Lord of Goddess Keep. The Lastday Ceremonies and weddings are also performed. Old Tongue The Old Tongue is the language which was spoken in ancient times when the diarmadh'im ruled. Certain peoples still speak the language, such as the Desert Tribes and the mountainous people of Firon. Many of the terms or titles are still in use or resemble modern words. Merida The Merida are a fictional people of assassins renowned for their silence and skill. They are a people without a home, without a Princedom or any known permanent Keep, though they currently hide within the borders of Cunaxa. Their colors are yellow and brown. If they have a banner it is not known to those not Merida. They have a hierarchy and nobles, the royals of which are called the Merida Blood. Those of the Blood bear a ritual chin scar to signify their station. Much of the culture of the Merida – outside of the training of assassins – remains a mystery. In the Old Tongue Merida means 'Gentle Glass.' This name is because these assassins' chosen weapon – and calling card – is a glass knife, which is also filled with poison. The green-glass blade is notched and shatters as it enters a body, poisoning the victim as well as making it impossible to remove the blade. If stabbed by a Merida knife there is no hope of survival. This makes the Merida very formidable assassins. Notes External links Melanie Rawn's Official Site Map